Great Dismal Swamp

We went on an adventure yesterday not knowing what we'd find. Delaney has wanted to see the Great Dismal Swamp since we were still in CA. We saw it on a map one day and she took great pride in telling everyone "When I move to VA, I'm going to live near the Great Dismal Swamp!" or after we moved she would meet people and say "I live near the Great Dismal Swamp!" SO, yesterday after we dropped the twins off at pre-school, we went in search of the swamp. We drove N/W from our house and took the long way 'round. We actually passed an upper portion of it but couldn't really see it...you know...for all the trees. I guess we thought it would look swampy-er...or something. We brought a disappointed Delaney back home and promised we'd take her out again after school but this time, we'd head south on Route 17. The map showed 17 being smack beside the swamp. We couldn't miss, right?!

Back out after school, we headed down 17 and drove for maybe 20 or 30 minutes before we saw a sign for "Old Rt 17 Great Dismal Swamp Canal" or some such wording. We turned around, parked the car, and discovered a world of wonder. Old 17 was a narrow, 2 lane road that is now closed - a new super by-pass has been built. The old road is permanently closed to traffic and is now a foot/bike path. We could actually walk right beside the Great Dismal Swamp Canal. We saw very few people along the trail. It will be a great place to bring the kids and their bikes, a picnic lunch (periodically there are tables and benches and garbage cans), fishing poles (but watch out for the mercury in the fish, says a posted sign!). I was a little bit nervous when I saw a "Bear Crossing" sign, but luckily, we didn't see any bears on this trip! We still didn't exactly see swamp but Delaney and the twins seemed satisfied and we all had a great time.

After the swamp, we drove further south and hit North Carolina. We found a 7-11 (for some Slurpee's after that long walk along the canal!) and then started our drive back home. Dinner at "Friendly's" and kids in bed around 8:30! What a darn long day.

Oh, yeah, and I didn't mention that we spent most of the afternoon at the mall yesterday. Haircuts for me and William. Stops at the Disney Store, RadioShack, etc. Nothing very exciting.

Today we are going to a big picnic for the families of Steve's ship. Apparently there will be bouncy houses and things for the kids. We're keeping Delaney home from school. I forgot to take my camera on our adventures yesterday but you can be sure I'll remember it today!